25 Oct 2023 | 04:27 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs in Morobe Province at around 14:49 Oct. 25
Magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea, at around 14:49 Oct. 25. No initial reports of damage or casualties.
Event
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in Morobe Province at around 14:49 Oct. 25. The epicenter was about 54 km (34 miles) west-northwest of Lae. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 70 km (43 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in Morobe, Eastern Highlands, Chimbu, eastern and central Madang, eastern and central Gulf, northern Central, and northern Oro provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
